Malappuram,
which literally means a ‘land atop hills’ is aptly named. The
land is bound by the Nilgiri Hills on the east, with the Lakshwadweep
Sea running along its entire western coast. Mainly three rivers
– the Chaliyar, the Kadalundi and the Bharatapuzha water the district.
Malappuram is replete with a rich and eventful history. The military
headquarters of the Zamorins of Kozhikode was located here. The
Zamorins had well established contacts with the Arab world, and
according to some historians, were the wealthiest rulers in medieval
India. However, despite their immense wealth, they were unable
to unify Kerala into a single political entity – which paved the
way for the British to annex Kerala. The Mappilla revolt against
the British East India Company between 1792 and 1921 can be traced
to Malappuram. The place was also an important centre of both
Vedic learning as well as Islamic philosophy.

The
temples and mosques in the area are well known for their spectacular
festivals. Along with historic monuments and diverse natural attractions,
a range of ritual and cultural art forms adds to its value as
a destination worth seeing.

At
the base of the Cantonment Hill, lies the Kottapadi – the remains
of an old fort that was built originally by the Zamorins. Parnambi,
a chieftain under the Zamorins used the complex for training his
militia. The Vettakkorumakan Temple and the Shiva Temple are located
near the Fort.

Malappuram
also houses the Jama-at Mosque – one of the most significant mosques
in Kerala. The four-day long festival of Nercha, is held at the
mosque every year in April. Adjacent to the mosque is the Mausoleum
of the Malappuram Shaheeds (martyrs). Their heroic deeds have
been immortalised in the war ballads of Malappuram. The Nercha
festival commemorates all those who fell in the fighting between
Parnambi and the local Mappillas.